This is a great trail. We started at Indian Valley Elementary which I would recommend in the summer months because the climb to the Ridge Top offers little shade but once you get there it is full of great views and cooling breezes. The trail is "closed" and mile 3.1 on this map so technically you should take the Ridge Top Bypass at mile 3. We hopped the barrier because we did not want to backtrack and found the descent at mile 3.2 pretty challenging. The Twin Ponds section (5.2 and beyond) is beautiful and shaded. Lots of raptors and other birds and reptiles -- we were even treated to a California King snake!

Counterclockwise. This was a very difficult trail. Not because of the length or up and downs. Bit because of the “slipperiness” of the trail. The down hills especially had to be traversed with baby steps because if this. And lots of brush overhanging the trails not good for ticks and poison oak. $10 self service to get in. All day never saw a park employee. I will not be back and don’t suggest this trail, not much fun.

I live 3 miles from this trailhead. Great short 3 mike hike. If you go early Morning like I get to do it’s great, very little people. Falcons nest. Red tail hawk nest. Stellar’s Jays, Quail, Turkeys, lots of birds. The Ranger is a super nice guy.We have even seen a Bobcat.

Just don’t go in the afternoon with the crowds of loud groups of people.

Great views all around! The first mile makes for an awesome workout...nothing but climbing!! Would love to live close to some climbs like this so I can do repeats as my evening workouts.My party followed this route up to the summit then north peak. From there we went on the trail for the Grand Loop Trail.

Lot of parking options, go down near the stables (not the school) for your best options. The start of the hike is pretty average - not much to look at other than Castle rock. Crossed a few very small streams but easy to navigate without getting wet. The back half of the hike is pretty amazing - green wide open space and some interesting rock formations. Few more Mountain bikers & cows on this section but still peaceful

If heading clockwise, your first 2+ miles are generally downhill. Then the (choose your adjective) begins. 3+ miles up. And on some stretches, it’s very steep, and doesn’t seem to let up. However, the vantage points near the summit are worth the weary legs (and lungs).

Southern and eastern aspects of loop are quite exposed. Late January and I found myself wishing for a pair of shorts and a T-shirt. That is, until coming down into the valley of the northern and western aspect of the loop (I journeyed counter clockwise) which is shady from the oaks, full of moths and birdsong, and has a few creeks running across. More muddy than I expected and finished within two hours at a strong pace.

If you want to feel that you are in the middle of the Swiss Alps without getting an air ticket, do this hike. It's one of my favorite hikes around. I would say its a Moderate+ but rewarding none the less.

Great hike! Great cardio! The first hour or so is just up up up. So if you’re not a regular hiker this will feel more like an extreme or strenuous hike instead of moderate. Great views! BBQ trail very nice and wooded. We have seen baby bob cats. Haven’t seen the mothers so be aware. Lots of mtn bikers. They go fast so just be looking ahead. Everyone is very respectful. Usually takes us 2:40 minutes to do.